Gulf Shores is a coastal city in the southern state of Alabama and is a popular tourist destination, providing miles of white sandy beaches as well as a multitude of attractions. The city is one of three seaside resort areas in Alabama and offers many lodging options such as condos, beach houses and beachfront hotels. Visitors to the area can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, scuba diving, boating and parasailing.
Golf
For those who love to golf, Gulf Shores has more than its share of courses to choose from. From championship golf at Craft Farms to miniature golf at Pirate's Island Adventure Golf, there is a course for all skill levels and ages in Gulf Shores.
Pirate Island Adventure Golf provides themed entertainment for the whole family with stunning waterfalls, treasure caves, spooky ghost ships and pirate hideouts all throughout the course designed to enchant the youngest of players.
For those looking for a more sophisticated game, Craft Farms offers the only two Arnold Palmer courses in the state of Alabama. Besides the 36 holes of championship golf, visitors can also enjoy the Cotton Creek Clubhouse with amenities such as the formal Palmer Dining Room, the lounge, the golf shop, the large outdoor pool and several meeting and board rooms.
State Parks
State parks offer something for the whole family and are another great way to spend your time when visiting Gulf Shores. Gulf State Park is one example that offers everything from camping to hiking, golf, fishing, nature trails, picnicking and hiking. Visitors can choose to set up their own tent or enjoy one of the park's own completely furnished cottages or cabins. Gulf State Park also contains more than 3 miles of sandy beaches where guests can enjoy swimming or sunbathing, or visit the concession stand at the beach pavilion which also contains air-conditioned bathrooms and showers. The picnic area in Gulf State Park also includes a swimming area on Lake Shelby.
Water Parks
Water parks are a great way to enjoy some fun in the sun as well as physical activity, and Waterville USA in Gulf Shores offers just that. The theme park has been providing entertainment to tourists in the area since 1986 and features attractions such as the wavepool, the flowrider, coastal waters and the jet stream. Non-water attractions include miniature golf, house of bounce and the arcade. After a day of rides, guests can also enjoy a snack at Woody's Cafe or Perky's Pizza. The park is closed each year from October until March for routine maintenance.
Zoos
Zoos are always a popular way to spend the day, and Gulf Shores provides the perfect opportunity at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. The facility is open year-round from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is closed only on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. It is located just a few short blocks from the beach and houses more than 290 animals including big cats, primates, bears, birds, reptiles and a children's petting zoo. Visitors can also enjoy special activities such as the Outback Encounter or the Tiger Encounter, which offers opportunities to play with the baby kangaroos and tiger cubs.
Amusement Parks
Amusement parks are a fun way to spend time as well as providing plenty of physical exercise. The Track Family Recreation Center in Gulf Shores provides all kinds of entertainment with features such as go-karts, bumper rides, miniature golf, big thrill rides including bungee jumping, and kiddie rides, including a carousel, swings and a Ferris wheel. The park is open year-round, but the times will vary depending on the season. The facility will host birthday parties or special events and also offers special rates for groups.
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